Cup cells are a specific type of cell distinguishable in microscopic sections by their unique appearance.
Cup cells are identified based on their distinct features compared to the surrounding absorptive cells. Here's a breakdown of their characteristics:
- Lighter Cytoplasmic Staining Density: When viewed under a microscope using standard staining techniques, the cytoplasm (the material within the cell) of cup cells appears lighter than that of absorptive cells.
- Shorter Brush Border: The brush border, which is a dense layer of microvilli on the cell's surface, is shorter in cup cells compared to absorptive cells.
- Cuplike Apical Indentation: This is the most defining characteristic. The apical (top) surface of the cell features a cuplike indentation, giving the cell its name. The lighter cytoplasmic staining density and shorter brush border which has a cuplike apical indentation are used to identify these cells (as described in the provided reference).
Therefore, cup cells can be identified under a microscope due to their lighter staining, shorter brush border and characteristic cuplike apical indentation.
